Association Zaouia · Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
SIZE
2m 52cm x 97cm x 3cm — 8ft 3in x 3ft 2in x 1in
WEIGHT
5655 g
MATERIALS
Cotton Thread, Wool , Spindle, and Naturally Dyed Wool
PRODUCT ID
#9490
The Beni-Ourain rug is used daily in the lives of local Moroccans. They are used for everything from bed covers to simple living room rugs. They can also be used for special occasions, like weddings. It is said that the women transfer their feelings into these rugs while crafting them.
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MEET THE MAKERS
Aicha Rahim
Aicha was born in Assakka, a village located an hour away from Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef. Her husband works different seasonal jobs to secure a minimal income. They have 3 daughters and 2 sons. Her oldest daughter is married and lives in the small city of Tounfite. Her second oldest daughter has finished high school. While the rest of her kids currently attend school. Aicha’s mother taught her how to weave as a young girl. She enjoys making traditional rugs and Hanbal rugs. She joined Association Zaouia in 2011, however did not make very many sales when they first began(They sold less than 5 rugs in three years). She hopes that by opening an online store, all the weavers will finally earn a real income. She hopes to earn enough to finally be able to fix her home and provide for her kids.
Malika Qerchi
Malika is from Kassa Vwardel. She is married and is the mother to three children. She learned to weave as a child at home. She enjoys her work in crafting and sewing and is very skilled in making rugs and Hanbal. She joined Association Zaouia in 2014. Malika uses the income she receives from her work to help her husband financially and hopes that her family can live a good life together. She hopes to one day visit Beni Mileh.
VISIT THE VILLAGE
Association Zaouia hosts visitors in their village — share tea, watch the artisans at work, and see the craft up close. Visits start at $17 per person, and most of it goes straight to the group.
Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef, Morocco · about 4 hours from Fez
